When you’re decorating a whole house, the process can feel exhausting and overwhelming. It’s easy to focus on the larger pieces your space needs, such as a sofa, chairs and dining set, and call it a day. If you feel like something is missing in the room and you can't place your finger on it, you may have forgotten about the accent pieces that complete a space: side tables and console tables.
Side tables and console tables are important pieces to include in your design scheme from both a functional standpoint and when considering the room's aesthetic. This guide will explain how to seamlessly integrate side tables and console tables into your home’s design, from the living room to the bedroom.
Living Room Side Tables
Side tables are more than just an accent piece – they play an important role in how you and your guests can comfortably use your space. Side tables are a surface on which to set a lamp, rest your drink and style your favourite coffee table books and family photos. As a general rule, all seats should have a place where you and your guests can set a drink and a snack.
Side Table Design Tips
When selecting side tables for your living room, don’t feel like you must purchase an entire matching set. You can achieve a designer look by investing in complementary pieces. For example, instead of buying a complete living room furniture set, you can still achieve a beautiful look with coordinating independent pieces. One way to do this is by selecting furniture pieces that are different styles but in the same shade of wood to create a cohesive yet interesting space. Below are several design tips on pairing furniture pieces to ensure that your room achieves a one-of-a-kind, yet visually pleasing look.
- Design Tip 1: Pair your side tables with a matching console table but in different hues. Pair a gray console table, like the Clary Accent Table, with blue side tables, like the Marseille Chairside Table.
- Design Tip 2: Pair a set of marble side tables, like the Mia Faux Marble Chairside Table with a dark gray accent cabinet, like the Darci Accent Cabinet, to bring complementary tones with contrasting textures into your living room.
- Design Tip 3: Pair a square wood coffee table with octagon end tables, like the Cleo Chairside Table, or round end tables like the Nashik accent table. While these don’t need to be part of a set, there should be a unifying element such as the same tone of wood.
Side Table Styling
Styling your side tables can be approached from a purely functional aspect or can be a place to showcase your unique design aesthetic. You may want your side table to be a place on which to hold a table lamp and a drink and provide a cute set of coaster to protect the surface. Or, if you want to elevate your side table’s look further, you can style it with a stack of books, a decorative bowl, a candle or a treasured family photograph.
Bedroom Side Tables
Whether you call them nightstands or end tables, a bedroom isn’t complete until two tables flank the bed. While the bedside tables don’t need to be part of the same dresser set, they should match each other to create a uniform look. However, if an eclectic vibe is more your style, you can anchor the two different tables with coordinating table lamps to bring in a unifying element.
Bedside Table Function
When shopping for a bedside table, size and storage are two essential qualities. A bedside table should be between 24 - 28 inches tall. This is usually the same height as the mattress. This height recommendation allows for the most convenient access to the table from the bed, as well as for the most cohesive visual design.
If you have a smaller bedroom, you can trick the eye into seeing a larger space by using bedside tables with a clear top like glass or Lucite. The Roxy Chairside Table creates additional visual space with its glass tabletop.
Ample storage is essential in a bedside table. Storage can even be considered the most important feature. The Rocco Blue Chairside Table allows for plenty of storage to hold your TV remote, books, phone and tablets. The Rocco table also includes two hidden power outlets and USB ports to keep your devices charged, without tangled, unsightly cords. Bedside tables with ample storage help the surface stay clear, to create a serene, clutter-free setting.
Bedside Table Styling
Keeping your bedside table clean goes a long way. Not only will minimal items help lend to a relaxing environment, but you won’t risk knocking over items in the dark. Keep your nightstand decor to the essentials, such as a table lamp, clock, a water carafe and perhaps a framed family photo.
A thoughtfully selected side table has the power to tie your space together while also making it more comfortable. Whether you’re looking for side tables for your living room or bedroom, tables that boast both form and function can be the missing elements your room needs.
